New Mexico regulators are demanding faster cleanup of decades-old nuclear waste at Los Alamos National Laboratory — and say they may fine the U.S. Department of Energy up to 16 million dollars for groundwater violations.
State officials say large volumes of radioactive and hazardous waste from Cold War-era operations remain unremedied, raising concerns about long-term environmental risk.
Recent testing found elevated levels of a toxic chemical in groundwater near San Ildefonso Pueblo, though officials say drinking water remains safe.
New Mexico leaders also want legacy waste prioritized for disposal, arguing new nuclear weapons production is creating additional waste before old contamination is addressed.
The Energy Department says it’s reviewing the enforcement actions and remains committed to public safety.
